Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan is a small, landlocked country in the eastern Himalayas and situated between India and China. Its landscape ranges from subtropical plains and forests in the South to sub-alpine forests and snowy mountains in the North. It is a predominantly Buddhist country and is known as the last stronghold of Mahayana Buddhism.

Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?
All International visitors (excluding Indian nationals) intending to visit Bhutan, require a visa which must be pre-arranged. For all visitors, except those from Bangladesh & Maldives, this visa must be applied for and approved in advance of travel.  The visa can be processed through local travel company who is providing ground services OR visitors have option now to obtain visa directly through Department of Immigration, Royal Government of Bhutan portal.  
Visitors from India need an Entry Permit and are required to hold an Indian Passport or Indian Voter ID card. For Indian nationals under the age of 18, a passport or a birth certificate can be used to enter, and they must be accompanied by a legal guardian. 
Visitors from Bangladesh and Maldives also require a Visa which can be processed and obtained in advance prior to arrival, or one can get it on arrival also.
Nationals from Switzerland and Thailand holding diplomatic or government-official passports are eligible for a visa at their port of entry.

How much does the visa cost?
Visa fee is US Dollar 40. Along with Visa, Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for entire duration of trip is also payable. We can process and obtain visa if tour is booked through us while in such case Visa fee, Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and logistics coast is payable in advance. 

How do I get to Bhutan? 
There are a number of airports from where you can fly into Bhutan; Bangkok, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Singapore, Dhaka, Bagdogra, Bodh Gaya, Guwahati and Mumbai. However, Bodh Gaya and Mumbai flights are season flights.
 
At present two carriers operate flight to Bhutan, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines (Tashi Air). Also, there are three land border crossings through which one can travel into the Kingdom overland.  All crossings are along the Indian border only – Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar.  

How is Weather in Bhutan?
Bhutan is year-round destination, and every season has its own charm. There are mainly four seasons: Summer (June to August), Autumn (September to November), Winter (December to February) and Spring (March to May). 

March, April, May, September, October, November are climatically preferred months when skies are generally clear and the high mountain peaks rise to a vivid visible against clear blue sky.

During winter (December, January, February), the sky is bright and sunny at day time but cold at night and in early morning when the sun hides behind the mountains. At night, the temperature may fall below zero. In spite of low temperature at night and in early morning, winter still remains good time for cultural tours specially to enjoy clear blue sky and sunny days.

The monsoon usually arrives in late June and lasts till mid-September. Light to heavy rain expected mainly in the late evenings and nights.  Though monsoon months are not appropriate for trekking but recommendable for cultural tours when the hills and valleys are lush green while temperature remains comfortable.

What is the accommodation like?
Bhutan offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxurious 5-star hotels to value for money classical 3- & 4-star establishments those are interesting blend of traditional architectural style and modern comfort. There are plenty of accommodation options available in Western & Central destinations of the country however when one moves to Eastern region, the choices get limited with only simple 3-star hotels and village homestays. In order to ensure quality experience for visitors, it is mandatory to use accommodation units certified and approved by Tourism Council of Bhutan.

What’s the food like in Bhutan?
The hotels & restaurants in Bhutan offer decent selection of international & local cuisine and beverages. The most distinctive characteristic of local Bhutanese cuisine is its spiciness. For locals, chillies are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal which is not spicy. All tourist standard hotels & restaurants cater well to taste of international visitors including special dietary requirements.

What kind of vehicles is used for Tours?
Latest Toyota, Hyundai, KIA make vehicles are available for tour within the country and tourist transport is of quality standard. SUVs are provided for a team of 1 – 2 guests, a minivan for 3 – 6 guests while for 7 – 17 guests, a Toyota Coaster. All these vehicles are periodically serviced, maintained and driven by well-trained, efficient drivers who are expert for driving on mountainous, winding roads.

Is it safe to travel in Bhutan?
Bhutan is extremely safe place to visit, even for solo traveller. There is very little crime experienced by locals or visitors nevertheless it is always advisable to take care of yourself and your belongings. 

What currency is used in Bhutan?
Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum (Nu.). Its value is tied to the Indian Rupee which is also accepted as legal tender. However Indian currency notes in 2000 denomination not acceptable.

What is the Time Zone in Bhutan & country code of Bhutan while dialing from Overseas?
Bhutan has only one time zone. It is six hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (+6 GMT), half an hour ahead of India (IST) and one hour behind Thailand. Bhutan is eleven hours ahead of New York city. The country code is 975.

Is English widely spoken? What is the official language of Bhutan?
Yes, English is widely spoken. It is the medium of instruction in all schools / institutions. However, the official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha.

What is the electricity output in Bhutan?
Here, electricity runs on 220 / 240 volts. Three different electrical plugs are used throughout Bhutan: the British plug (three square pins, compatible with type G sockets), the European plug (two round pins, compatible with type C socket) and the Indian plug (three thick round pins, compatible with type D sockets). For all electrical appliances that you bring with you, please carry the appropriate adapters.

What is the dress code and etiquette to be followed by visitors in Bhutan? 
Visitors need to exercise caution while visiting religious institutions. Please avoid shorts, and Tank tops during visit to temples, monasteries and Dzongs. Hats should be taken off also while entering religious sites. Please avoid body hugging, sleeveless T shirts or miniskirts while walking around public areas.

Always walk in a clockwise direction while visiting religious places or objects like temples, monasteries, Stupas (chortens), prayer flags etc. Please do not point a finger at a sacred object or place. It is considered being disrespectful. In case of any doubt, it is always advisable to follow the instruction of your accompanying guide.

Is there a limit on the number of tourists that can enter Bhutan each year?
There is no limit on the number of tourists permitted into the country each year. In order to protect local culture, traditions and natural environment the Government has adopted a judicious and far-sighted policy of ‘High Value, Low Impact Tourism’. This policy is aimed at attracting discerning tourists who respect the unique culture, nature, and values of the Bhutanese people while also providing visitors with an unforgettable experience.

Any precautions that one must know while traveling in Bhutan?
Yes, your health is of utmost importance to us. Please avoid tap water and stick to Mineral water, easily available everywhere. Roads between cities are winding so medication for motion sickness is strongly suggested. You should also pack an adequate supply of any prescribed medications you may require while traveling. You should consult a physician about high altitude travel. After a brief period of acclimatization, most people do not suffer from altitude sickness, but elderly travellers or those with high blood pressure or weak heart conditions need to exercise caution at high altitudes.

Please explain the options we have for shopping while we are there?
Bhutan is famous of its exquisite postage stamps, hand woven fabrics, carved masks, woven baskets, wooden bowls, handmade paper, finely crafted metal and Thangkha painting.

What are smoking rules in Bhutan?
Bhutan is non-smoking country however tourists can bring following tobacco products for their personal consumption: 800 sticks of cigarettes / 150 pieces of cigar / 750 grams of other tobacco products. All these items are subject to 100 percent custom duty and 100 per cent sales tax). Also smoking at public places is prohibited. 

Is travel insurance mandatory?
Yes, all visitors must have full, valid travel insurance for the duration of their visit. For all visitors except those from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives, it is required to be in place while processing the visa application. Visitors from India, Bangladesh and the Maldives have the option to procure domestic travel insurance at their port of entry.

Where can I exchange currency?
Visitors can change to local currency Ngulturm (Nu.), upon arrival at Paro International Airport or at banks. Most the hotels also offer currency exchange facility. 

How much cash can I bring into Bhutan?
You may bring cash equivalent to US Dollar 10,000 into the country.

Can I use my credit card and ATM card in Bhutan?
ATM and Banks accept Visa and Mastercard. International Credit cards are widely used in urban areas of Bhutan. However, this service may not be available in remote regions of the country. Visitors can download the digital wallet app goBob launched by the Bank of Bhutan, which can be used with a local SM card and is widely accepted throughout the country. Cash in US Dollar and Indian Rupee also widely accepted.

Is there good internet connection & Wi Fi in Bhutan?
Most hotels in Bhutan do provide Wi Fi. However, it is recommendable to obtain a local SIM card for more convenient data and relatively more reliable internet connection. Mobile data in Bhutan can also be expensive. You can find B mobile SIM in mobile stores in all major cities, which you can easily top up using Bank of Bhutan app goBoB. This app also facilitates other payment within the country. 

Are there certain things which I can’t take out of Bhutan when I depart?
Bhutan has a law that sets out which artistic, historic, cultural, religious, social, archaeological and technical objects visitors may not take out while departing from Bhutan. To ensure any items you acquire comply with the law, you will need an Export Permit for non-antique artefacts. Find out more about the permit and how to apply for one here. 

Can I use a Drone for photography while in Bhutan?
A permit which must be applied for in advance, is required to a fly a Drone either recreationally or commercially in Bhutan. Please email media@tcb.gov.bt to obtain one.